2002 Vauxhall Vectra Reviews

Cam chain and tensioner needed replacing at 60000 miles approx.

Catalytic converter needed replacing at 67000 miles approx.

Cam chain and tensioner went again at 76000 miles approx.

EGR valve went wrong at 65000 miles approx.

Front wheel bearing starting to rumble at 77000 miles.

I like the car, and it is very roomy. Fuel consumption is reasonable for a 2.2 petrol.

However I do feel very let down with the failure of 2 cam chains and tensioners. This item was designed to last the life of the vehicle!! If you search on the net, you will realise it seems to be a problem with this model engine. All I can say is, before you buy, check if it's been replaced, because it's not a cheap job.

Front subframe bolts required washers, as none were fitted at the factory, causing the radiator to drop. Easy DIY fix.

Air con currently not working (I got a 12 month warranty with the car, so this will be fixed under that).

Boot was leaking, but have cured by tightening rear wiper rubber bolt.

For a diesel, the car is very quick and quiet. When driving on a day to day basis, it doesn't sound like a diesel.

When driving around town (up to 30mph) the gears take a bit of getting used to as they are very tall. You can't go above 3rd gear at 30mph or the engine labours.

Well there should I start? Well actually nothing went wrong, or it just needed some work on engine. I didn't noticed the smoke from the cold engine start and didn't even suspect, but after a few mornings I noticed blue smoke coming out.

Another thing that went wrong was the glow plug; while changing it just broke. It was fine for a year as it wasn't that cold, but some days it took longer to start engine, later found out that it's a common issue with these engines, so needed to do it at a cost of £550. The garage mechanics were really crap and disappointing, and took 9 days to do this job, and the oil seals were not replaced, so it still gives some blue smoke in the morning :(

Other than that, it is reliable car, what else you could expect from it?

Passed 2 MOTs with no issues.

I fitted some 17's on 45 profile Falken FK452 rubber so I could stop, as previously it had Dunlop/Michelin back/front M+S; these were worst tyres I was ever on. The diesel has much more power than my previous Audi 80 (2.3E), and drinks less juice.

Head light bulbs.

Fuel pump went at 62000 miles, & very expensive at a main dealer.

Flap under the engine keeps dropping off, as the bolts seem to be worn.

The car has good performance, & is comfortable with good fuel economy.

After the fuel pump, I would never touch another car like this; breakdown men are aware that the fuel pumps on these cars are a source of frequent trouble.